Things Which Surprised and Inspired Me in Russia

This is the first time in last 70 years of our country’s history that we are witnessing better relationship between Pakistan and Russia. They are coming close to each other and therefore it is being considered as a big paradigm shift in relationships and convergence between the two countries. There are basically two main reasons behind their growing closeness, the first main factor is US-India relations, while second obvious and powerful reason is CPEC.

Russia showed keen interest to take active part in CPEC and both China and Pakistan agreed to extend cooperation and allowed Russia to be part of it. Undoubtedly, CPEC is an opportunity for Russia and Pakistan to enhance cooperation and build a trust based relationship for future mutual cooperation in other sectors as well, specially in the education and science and technology.

My journey to Moscow started from Karachi Airport on October 13. When I entered in the airport, I saw that Prime Minister portrait was empty, perhaps airport authorities have not accepted the new PM Shahid Khaqan Abbasi with open heart, therefore they have still maintained empty place.

I saw founder of the Nation Qauid Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, President Mamnoon Hussain photographs at various places inside the airport, though more than two months have passed to new PM, however Airport authorities have showed no interest to post new PM’s photograph and kept the place empty, interesting but sad. Anyway, When I reached Moscow, I saw bucolic natural beauty in the city, fabulously opulent palaces of czars, renowned and cultural art, epic history that represents thousand of years.

Moscow is being considered one of the big cities on Moscowa River. It is pertinent to mention here that because of huge area, Russia is being called Euroasia.

Moscow’s beautiful buildings and their magnificent architecture fascinated me a lot. Other than buildings, huge and expensive cars and beauty everywhere compelled me to love my life more.

My first stay in Moscow was in most famous Red Square area. Hold on, do not try to connect it to Russia’s Red Army or revolution because this square is an identity of Russia.

St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow’s Red Square is Russia’s most recognizable landmark. It was built in the 16th century for Czar Ivan the Terrible.Millions of visitors wait in exquisite subway stations that resemble concert halls, differently themed with vaulted art deco ceilings, paintings and stained glass.

Currently, Russia is hosting 19th World Festival of Youth and Students, which has kicked off in Russia’s coastal city of Sochi today. Young people from all around the world have arrived Sochi to participate in this event.

The festival will continue till Oct. 22, during which about 20,000 youths between the ages of 18 and 35 from 150 countries will participate.

The theme of the festival is, “For peace, solidarity and social justice, we struggle against imperialism. Honoring our past, we build the future!”

A 62-member delegation of Pakistani youth is also participating for the first time in the 19th World Festival of Youth and Students. I am also part of it.

Participants will be able to take part in figure skating classes and Russian martial arts demonstrations. Thousands of students from universities around Russia will host conferences on the future of architectural design, Russian wildlife history and landscapes of Russia.

Each day of the week-long event, youth will take part in discussions regarding pressing political issues in regions of the globe, from fighting xenophobia in the United States to student movements for universal access to health and education.

Event participants will enjoy performances from Sochi Jazz, the People’s Artist of Russia and the Russian Federation of DanceSport and Acrobatic Rock’n’Roll.